South Korean minister condemns illegal detentions by protesters

South Korean Justice Minister Han Dong-hoon has strongly condemned the actions of individuals who allegedly engaged in unlawful detentions and obstructions at an Olympic venue, stating that such behavior constitutes a punishable offense as a "person caught in the act."

“

Freedom of expression and assembly does not grant the right to threaten, mock, or privately search and detain others.

Minister Han addressed the situation, which arose from protests related to ballot paper shortages during local elections. He emphasized that while freedom of expression and assembly are guaranteed rights, they do not extend to threatening, harassing, or imposing private detentions on others. He characterized South Korea as a civilized, law-based nation that resolves issues through reason, not violence.

“

The indiscriminate private searches, threats, de facto confinement, baseless accusations against Chinese people, and obstruction of business activities are all clear illegal acts and punishable as persons caught in the act.

The minister specifically denounced the "indiscriminate private searches, threats, and de facto confinement" targeting police, citizens, journalists, and sports personnel. He also condemned baseless accusations against Chinese individuals and interference with official duties, labeling them as clear illegal acts subject to immediate arrest and punishment.

“

South Korea is a civilized, law-based nation that resolves problems through reason and rationality, not violence.

Han stated that these actions tarnish the image of the many young people and citizens who are expressing their views maturely and with dignity. He noted that the police have already launched investigations into alleged coercion and assault against athletes and journalists. The Justice Ministry pledged to ensure thorough prosecution and punishment for those involved, while reaffirming its commitment to respecting legitimate expressions of opinion and restoring full suffrage rights.

“

These acts are smearing the faces of the many young people and citizens who are expressing their opinions in a mature and dignified manner.